Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri to Attend as Chief Guest; Lecture to Honour the Legacy of Eminent Journalism Educator
Veteran journalist Raju Santhanam, former Editor of The Statesman and former Head of Zee News, will deliver the inaugural Prof. Vepa Rao Memorial Lecture at the historic Gothic Hall of Gaiety Theatre, Shimla, on Saturday, October 31. Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri will attend the occasion as the Chief Guest.
The memorial lecture is being organised to mark the fourth death anniversary of Prof. Vepa Rao, a distinguished journalist, scholar and pioneering journalism educator who headed the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) for nearly three decades. Through his academic contributions, mentorship and commitment to professional excellence, Prof. Rao played a significant role in shaping generations of journalists and strengthening journalism education in Himachal Pradesh.
The initiative has been undertaken by Prof. Rao’s former students in collaboration with the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, HPU, and Keekli Charitable Trust. The event aims to celebrate his enduring contribution to journalism while creating a platform for reflection and dialogue on the changing landscape of the media and its responsibilities in contemporary society.
With nearly four decades of experience across print, television and digital media, Raju Santhanam brings extensive professional insight to the inaugural lecture. His association with Prof. Rao during their time at The Statesman adds a personal dimension to the occasion, making the lecture a tribute to both a respected colleague and an influential mentor.
Born in Andhra Pradesh in 1946, Prof. Vepa Rao built a distinguished career in journalism before making an equally significant contribution to academia. He served as Sunday Editor of The Hindustan Times, worked with The Tribune and later held the position of Editorial Adviser at The Statesman.
Prof. Rao came to Shimla in 1987 as a Resident Fellow at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. His research on communication and development during this period culminated in his acclaimed book, A Curve in the Hills. In 1990, he joined Himachal Pradesh University as Head of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, where he devoted himself to teaching, research and mentoring aspiring journalists.
His influence extended beyond the university, with teaching contributions at the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Dhenkanal. In recognition of his work in development journalism, he received the Himachal Pradesh Government Award for Development Journalism in 1997. A poet and literary thinker as well, he authored Liquid Folds, reflecting the breadth of his intellectual and creative pursuits.
For generations of students, Prof. Rao was more than an academic guide. Remembered for his warmth, wit and personal attention, he remained a trusted mentor who encouraged young journalists to pursue their profession with curiosity, integrity and commitment. His lasting influence continues through the journalists he taught and guided throughout their careers.
Prof. Vepa Rao passed away on October 31, 2022, at the age of 76. The inaugural memorial lecture seeks to carry forward his enduring ideals of intellectual inquiry, ethical journalism and excellence in education, while reaffirming the importance of experienced voices and critical thought in a rapidly evolving media environment.
Sponsored
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
